The Chronicle, Toowoomba, 18th January 2010
CONSULTING company Conics has been chosen to conduct an independent review of the proposed upgrade of the New England Highway Upgrade between Hampton and Geham.
Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said Conics was chosen following an assessment process.
“The assessment looked at three key criteria: relevant experience of key personnel; previous experience in conducting similar reviews or independent studies and capability to carry out the review,” Mr Wallace said.
The review will consider and assess safety records, needs of motorists, ecological and environmental impacts, cultural and heritage significance, technical aspects of the design and other design options.
Conics will begin the review, which is expected to take about eight weeks to complete, today.
Its review will include consultation with the local community and interest groups.
ABC Southern Queensland (radio):
Independent consultants have been appointed to review a controversial highway upgrade on the northern Darling Downs
The State Government wants to widen the New England Highway between Geham and Hampton but local residents say that involves the unnecessary felling of 1,400 old-growth trees.
After several protests last year the Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace agreed to hold an independent review into the project.
The study, conducted by Conics, begins today and will look at the safety record of the highway, the environmental and heritage impact of the upgrade, the needs of motorists and the technical aspects of the plan.
The review is expected to be completed in March.
